DOG handlers, schoolchildren, gamekeepers and gun dogs joined forces to help raise funds for a primary school.

Competitors and spectators enjoyed the springlike weather conditions for the HectorKirk Moorland Challenge Cup, which was held on the Bolton Abbey Estate, by kind permission of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire.

The Yorkshire Dales Moorland Group (YDMG) is committed to raising funds for local small Dales primary schools to help them to update their outdoor learning equipment.

Sonya Wiggins, co-ordinator of the YDMG, said: “It has been a real pleasure organising the HectorKirk Moorland Challenge Cup for its second year after raising over £4,000 last year for an outdoor learning forest classroom for Kettlewell Primary School.

"We have seen some fantastic displays from both dogs and owners from as far afield as Sweden and Scotland and have raised over £3,000 for a very worthwhile cause, along with supporting our local economy with overnight stays.

“I am passionate about enhancing schoolchildren’s knowledge of the countryside and the funds raised at the event will go towards providing new outdoor equipment to help get local children outside more often for learning in the beautiful countryside that surrounds them.”

The Cup comprised a retriever test with a total of 60 dogs enjoying the moorland conditions and their owners competing for a wide range of donated prizes.

A sprinkle of flair was added by members of the current England retrieving team taking part and distinguished panellists from across the British Isles judging the competitors.